The question of how Belford’s crime rate compares to the UK average is one that highlights a significant difference. Belford, a built-up area in Northumberland with a population of 1965, exhibits a crime rate of 48.4 incidents per 1,000 residents. This contrasts sharply with the UK’s overall average crime rate of 91.6 incidents per 1,000 people.
Essentially, Belford experiences considerably less crime than the average for the United Kingdom. This is reflected in its safety score, which stands at an impressive 90 out of 100 – considerably higher than the UK average of 79. A higher safety score indicates a perceived lower risk of crime and a greater sense of security within the community.
For context, it's worth noting the crime rates of nearby areas. Bamburgh and Lowick both report a crime rate of 0.0 per 1,000 residents, indicating exceptionally low levels of recorded crime. Seahouses and North Sunderland have a crime rate of 48.3 per 1,000, mirroring Belford's rate closely. These figures demonstrate that Belford's crime rate isn't an anomaly but rather representative of a pattern of lower crime within this part of Northumberland.
While the data paints a reassuring picture, it’s important to remember that crime statistics are based on reported incidents. Even in areas with low crime rates, vigilance and community engagement remain crucial. Reporting any suspicious activity, no matter how minor it may seem, can contribute to maintaining the area’s safety and ensuring accurate crime data collection.